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The current in the circuit shown will be

Asked in AIPMT 2001 · Circuits with diodes

Figure: Circuits with diodes
Answer: (2) 5/(50) A

Step-by-step solution

Idea: settle which diode conducts first, then add only the resistances lying on the path that actually carries current.

The cell drives current one way round the loop. D₁ is oriented against that direction, so its branch behaves as an open circuit and carries nothing.

D₂ is oriented with it, so the current leaves the cell's branch and returns through D₂ and the 30 Ω beside it.

On that path the cell's own branch contributes 20 Ω and the conducting branch contributes 30 Ω.

Total resistance: 20+30=50 Ω.

I=5/(50) A, which is 0.1 A.

Why the other options are wrong

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